Description
Willow – Cistanche deserticola 100ml
1. What Is Cistanche deserticola?
Cistanche deserticola is a parasitic desert plant, traditionally used in Chinese medicine (known as Rou Cong Rong) to tonify kidney Yang, nourish essence and blood, and relieve constipation. It’s now recognized as endangered and regulated by CITES Appendix II due to habitat loss and overharvesting
2. Key Bioactive Compounds
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Phenylethanoid glycosides (notably echinacoside and acteoside/verbascoside) — potent antioxidants, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory
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Iridoid glycosides, polysaccharides, and oligosaccharides — contribute to laxative effects, gut modulation, endocrine health, and energy support
3. Insights & Benefits:
✅ A. Immunomodulatory, Anti-Aging & Longevity Support
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In aging mouse models, Cistanche extract extended lifespan, increased naïve T‑cells and NK cells, and reduced IL‑6, indicating reduced immunosenescence
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Polysaccharides boost dendritic‑cell function, lymphocyte proliferation, and vaccine antibody responses via TLR4‑NFκB pathways
✅ B. Neuroprotection & Cognitive Support
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Total glycosides demonstrated neurovascular regeneration and blood-brain barrier protection after ischemic stroke in rats via activation of Nrf‑2/Keap‑1 antioxidant pathway
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Echinacoside and related constituents elevated neurotrophic factors (BDNF, NGF, GDNF), protected dopaminergic neurons, and showed benefit in models of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and epilepsy
✅ C. Bone & Hormonal / Reproductive Health
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In ovariectomized rats, extracts improved bone density, suppressed osteoclast pathways (via RANKL/RANK/TRAF6), and prevented bone loss without impacting uterine weight
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Traditional use targets sexual dysfunction, fertility issues, low libido and kidney Yang deficiency—modern evidence partly supports enhanced sperm motility and sex-hormone modulation
✅ D. Digestive & Laxative Effects
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Polysaccharides in Cistanche improve gut motility, stool softening, microbial balance (boosting Lactobacillus and Bacteroides), and digestive enzyme activity—relieving constipation
✅ E. Sedative / Behavioral Effects
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Animal studies show sedation and prolonged sleep time in rodents after Cistanche water‑fraction extract administration, with reduced motor activity
✅ Final Take
Cistanche deserticola has a wide range of traditional and scientifically supported actions—especially immunomodulation, neuroprotective effects, bone health, and digestive support. The tincture by Willow Wellness likely delivers a concentrated extract, but dosing and active composition aren’t transparent without login access. If you’re considering use:
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Start with a low dose, observe effects on energy, mood, sleep, digestion.
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Be cautious about sedation or hormonal effects, especially in sensitive individuals.
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Consult a healthcare provider before using if you have autoimmune, hormonal, or pregnancy-related concerns.
The contents of the Knysna Health website shall not be regarded as medical advice, or a basis from which to make medical decisions. The use of information found on this site is completely your responsibility and at your own risk. Our recommendation is that if you have health concerns that you feel unsure about how to deal with, that you contact your trusted health professional for personalized advice.





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